Thursday is the end of the line for a pair of World Cup hopefuls. Tunisia and Panama were quickly eliminated from advancing to the knockout stage. Their bet on 2018 FIFA World Cup match will conclude participation. But there is still opportunity for the winless pair. One of them can at least fly home with something to show for the trip. A win would ease the sting of a disappointing tournament. For Panama failure was a given expectation. But for Tunisia there were hopes for the Round of 16. But a devastating opening loss crushed those aspirations.
2018 FIFA World Cup Panama vs. Tunisia
Date and Time: Thursday, June 28, 2018, 2 p.m. ET
Location: Mordovia Arena, Saransk
World Cup Betting Online Odds at SBG:
| Team | Spread | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tunisia | -½ (-119) | 2½ (-120) |  |
| Panama | +½ (+104) | 2½ (+105) | |
| |||
Panama vs. Tunisia TV Coverage: FS1
Panama in Russia
For Panama the trip to Russia was on “house money.” In fact, this was their first ever appearance in the tournament. Which made qualification the actual World Cup title for them. The entire nation basked in the glow of simply making the event. Coach Hernan Dario Gomez is now a national hero. He accomplished what nobody else has ever done. Panama’s dream of being listed on the Bet on 2018 FIFA World Cup board has been realized.
A Learning Experience
Gomez admitted before the tournament that it would be a learning experience. He stated that he wanted his squad to enjoy the trip and use it as a learning experience. What Panama has learned is that they have a long way to go. While deserving credit for making the field of 32 much remains to be done. A major disadvantage for Panama is their lack of previous experience. They have some seasoned players on the roster. But they are lacking participation at this level of competition.
Lessons Learned?
The lessons Gomez referred to were administered quickly. Panama lost their opener 3-0 to Belgium. The Red Devils showed the Panamanians just how far away they actually are. Belgium plays at a top tier advance level. It was a sobering reality check. But the worse was yet to come. England destroyed the Canal Men 6-1 in the next match. In fact,to say that Panama has been schooled would be an understatement.
Tunisia so Far
For Tunisia their Sports betting opener will define them. They were tied 2-2 with England late in the first match. But Harry Kane’s goal at the 90-minute mark decimated their dreams. As well as team morale. Had Tunisia gotten the draw perhaps the entire tournament complexion would be different. England is now a favorite. While Tunisia is headed home. In their second match they were flat. Belgium showed no mercy in a 5-2 win. In reality it was a case of England beating Tunisia twice.
Wahbi Khazri
If Tunisia is to prevail Wahbi Khazri could prove to be the difference. He will be the best player on the pitch. And one capable of impact. For Rennes in Ligue 1 he had nine goals in 24 apps.
Matchup to Watch
Panama has proven to not be ready for prime time. Tunisia showed Bet on 2018 FIFA World Cup potential against England. They should get the win in this one. Panama lacks depth and experience to compete at this level.
Bet on 2018 FIFA World Cup: World Cup Betting Odds Picks
Tunisia to get a consolation prize win for their trip home.
World Cup Betting Online Pick: Tunisia
World Cup Betting Online Score Prediction: Tunisia 2, Panama 0